I just felt like I could do it. I like to help people. I can't image how it feels not being with parents and family.

Jessica Dennis
2013 Ripple of Hope Award Winner

Foster parents for more than 20 years, Melvin and Jessica Dennis are often called upon by staff of Pennsylvania MENTOR’s children’s program in Brodheadsville to help teenagers with significant mental health challenges or those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “In addition to providing a safe, empathetic and loving environment for the children and adolescents they welcome into their home, Jessica and Melvin inspire hope in everyone who is fortunate enough to work with them,” says Sarah Buonarota, Program Coordinator at Pennsylvania MENTOR and the Dennises’ nominator.

Watch Melvin and Jessica accept their 2013 Ripple of Hope Award and be honored alongside their fellow winners in Philadelphia at the National Constitution Center.